This is a lively overview of the major ideas and concepts in archeological theory. Taking an historical approach and using clear and jargon-free language, the book examines the roots of current debates in the development of archeology over the last thirty years. It discusses for example what the New Archeology meant and means, what the differences are between processual and post-processual archaeology, and what cognitive archaeology is or might be. The author stresses the links between debates within archeology and issues in the wider world of theory, as well as the social and political context of archeological practice.

Author Bio

Johnson, Matthew : Durham University

Preface : The Contradictions of Theory. Introduction : Common Sense is Not Enough.

This is a lively overview of the major ideas and concepts in archeological theory. Taking an historical approach and using clear and jargon-free language, the book examines the roots of current debates in the development of archeology over the last thirty years. It discusses for example what the New Archeology meant and means, what the differences are between processual and post-processual archaeology, and what cognitive archaeology is or might be. The author stresses the links between debates within archeology and issues in the wider world of theory, as well as the social and political context of archeological practice.

Author Bio

Johnson, Matthew : Durham University

Table of Contents

Preface : The Contradictions of Theory. Introduction : Common Sense is Not Enough.